Nayakar Dynasty Reign: CE 1782-1798

King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe

Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe (CE 1782-1798), the brother of King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe, grew up immersed in Sinhala culture, becoming a multilingual scholar, poet, and patron of Buddhism. He authored the Sinhala Sannasa for the Asadisa Maha Jataka Kavya and ruled the Kandyan Kingdom.

Key Achievements

Authored the Sinhala Sannasa for the Asadisa Maha Jataka Kavya
Generous patronage of Buddhism
Mastered many languages including Pali and Sanskrit
Excelled as a poet and connoisseur of poetry
Grew up like a Kandyan and adapted to Sinhala culture

King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe

Introduction

King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe (CE 1782-1798) ascended the throne of the Kandyan Kingdom after his brother, King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe. He had arrived here from Madurai with his brother when he was a small child.

Early Life and Education

From a young age, Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe grew up adhering to Kandyan culture and the Sinhala way of life. For this reason, it is mentioned that he was raised as a Kandyan, as a Sinhalese. He distinguished himself as one of the most talented pupils of the chief incumbent of the Malwathu Viharaya at that time, and possessed a variety of skills. He mastered many languages, including Pali and Sanskrit.

Personality and Talents

The King made generous contributions to Buddhism and was both a connoisseur of poetry and a skilled poet. A prime example of his literary talents is his authorship of the Sinhala Sannasa for the Asadisa Maha Jataka Kavya.

Reign and Challenges

As King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe aged, he had no children. Consequently, a rivalry arose between his wife’s brothers, Princes Muttusami and Kannasami, to become the successor. At that time, the First Adigar Pilimatalawwe, who held the position of prime minister, was an exceptionally talented, power-hungry, and cunning individual. He supported Prince Kannasami and planned a conspiracy to assassinate the King and enthrone Prince Kannasami. As part of this plot, Kannasami was advised to conduct night patrols, citing threats to the King. However, the Wikipedia article does not provide further details on these events.

Legacy

Through his contributions to poetry, languages, and Buddhism, King Sri Rajadhi Rajasinghe made a significant impact on the cultural and religious advancement of the Kandyan Kingdom.